Pages

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

We're back from vacation. I thought this post about Legoland will be a good way for me to start blogging again. We did not have much time while we were there, we should have came earlier. Nonetheless, we enjoyed it.

I hope next time we can also visit the new Legoland in Florida. This trip I also packed lightly, we did not have enough clothes. I used the laundry once halfway during the trip.

Legoland has a lot of rides and activities even for toddlers like RC. The entrance fee is high, we paid more per person than what we have paid in Disneyland. We still have pictures at the Aquarium. I'll post it sometime within the week too.

Legoland is full of colors, they're life size legos even bigger. I loved the boat rides and some train rides. I also liked the holiday decors and the snow they had for kids.

Some rides are not made for RC yet. She had to be at least three years old. It was really great that we did not have to pay for her yet. She is reaching three years old so next time we don't get any more free entrances for her unless we get sponsors. =)

RC enjoyed snow sliding. She did it about four times while she was there. I haven't even tried this myself yet.

There are so many first times for RC. She had a special vacation. The first plane that we rode, the captain was holding a lei while saying "bye" to the passengers, he saw RC and gave the lei to her before we stepped out of the plane.

These structures are made from legos, they also have Las Vegas and other places made of legos.

So now I am back to blogging and saving again, doing all these little things I do so I can somehow help with my family's finances. I'm broke! I did not expect all the entrance fees to be so high and at times I had to pay for more than one person but that's okay. We need a break and splurge sometimes. It's not everyday that we get to go to California.

I hope you enjoyed the pictures. If you haven't visited Legoland yet, I think it is worth visiting, just plan to stay there for the whole day to get your money's worth unless you are getting it for free.

I'll try to draw the winner later for the Cetaphil giveaway. Thanks for all who joined.

By the way, One Busy Mama is having a $295 giveaway HERE. Check it out, there are so many entries but maybe you're the lucky one.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Whenever I watch the show House Hunters, one of the main concerns of the home buyers are garage. We haven’t had a garage here in Hawaii but it would sure be very helpful if we do. It can be a storage space for collections and other things that we would normally use indoor. Some houses have their washer and dryer at the garage.

There are garage storage cabinets to better organize the things that people store in their garages. I think the best garage would be spacious because a lot of people not just use it for their cars but also to do some hobbies especially for men who love to do handy work like woodworking. Garage cabinets can come in many forms now. The steel storage cabinets would probably be good if not the best because they are durable.

If you would like to purchase Arrow Spacemaker Storage Cabinets, you can check out arrowspacemaker.com. This post is brought to you by their website. Their cabinets can also be used in an office or a craft room. They look very modern. Aside from garage cabinets, they also provide other storage cabinets.

I still don’t have pictures of me and RC to share but I’ll just share some pictures from my favorite geek site, geekalerts.com. I wrote about them before and although I am not the “technical” kind of person, I enjoy looking at the cool gadgets posted on their website. I think some of them are invented by a genius. They have Geek Gadgets and Discount Coupons posted at their site. Geekalerts is also offering Things Remembered coupon if you like your stuff personalized or if you would like to give gifts with personalized engraving in them. RedEnvelope promo codes are also available at their site.

How would you like to have a white daisy for an umbrella? I would like one of this. It has been rainy lately and this umbrella would not just protect you from the rain but you’ll also walk in style. Maybe they should also make a sunflower or hibiscus umbrella.

This is the taco purse. It’s probably too small for my things but it’s cute and unique. The bacon scarf is something different too. It can also be a good DIY project.

I love watching comedy shows. There are some late nights when I enjoy watching funny cartoons and some stand-up comedians on TV. I know that they can be offensive sometimes and some topics they discuss are political but I find it mostly funny.

A website that has funny videos, photos & pictures is Uberhumor.com. They can give you the funniest picture you’ll see in a day. Lately, they have been posting some pictures that can be too sexy or can be offensive to some especially the more traditional ones. I just try to absorb the fun part of it because being too serious can be stressful. It’s not a very family friendly site but I think it is still interesting to see or read. If you like funny phrases or look for some funny comments that was posted on Facebook, they have it. It’s one way I try to entertain myself is to find humorous sites like uberhumor.

When I came here in the US, I thought that even jokes are a cultural thing. Sometimes, you get it but it would not be funny to you. I think as I stay here longer, the more I appreciate the humor this place has to offer. Laughing is definitely a good thing.

Do you use T-Mobile as your phone provider? The LG DoublePlay™ was launched recently and you can get it if you have T-Mobile phone service.

I currently don’t text as much as I used to but it would be nice to get unlimited text messages again. I do spend a lot of time with social networking and this is primarily because I am a blogger and social networks and communities provides more exposure for my blog.

The LG DoublePlay™ phone will allow users to do more than one application at one time. For example, you can surf the web while you are updating your Facebook page. It has a 2 megapixel camera with video recorder. For those who love to takes pictures like me, this can be a great phone for us. Sharing contents and pictures is also easy with LG Doubleplay™. It also has a dual customizable touch screens and a full slide-out keyboard so you can easily text.

At this time, I would like to grab a better phone with such great features like The LG DoublePlay™ however, because my days are usually just spent being at home now, I don’t consider myself an on-the-go mom. Do you text a lot within the month? Do you use your phone and spend a lot of time logged on to your social networks such as Facebook? What are your thoughts about phones like The LG DoublePlay™. These are questions I should also ask myself.

Please check out this link for pictures of the phone and for more features:

Monday, November 21, 2011

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year but it can also be the most expensive. To make sure that you (or other gift givers) don’t waste any bucks, it is better if you ask your child to make a list for Santa what they would like to receive for Christmas.

Now, there’s a digital tool that will help kids make their list, it’s called the Santa’s Hideout. This tool makes gift giving less stressful. There’s a lot to love about Santa’s Hideout. Here are some reasons:

It is easy to register. You’ll just have to type your name, email address and choose a password.

It is fun for the kids. They get to make their wish lists and send it to Santa digitally. They can choose a category for a gift like clothing or toys and from there, choices will again appear and they can drag which item they particularly want to their list.

It is controlled by the parent(s) and gift givers. The wish lists can be shared by parents to their friends and family. The gift givers can choose which gift they already have or plan to give. Parents can also set the maximum amount of the gift that they can receive. It’s budget friendly.

It makes gift giving organized and makes buying for gifts easier, therefore more time to do other things for Christmas.

It’s free!

I know RC is a little too young to make her own list but I’m planning to use this list in a few years. I’m glad that I was informed about this and was given a chance to review the site.

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Wholesale sunglasses are now hot among several fashion accessories. Other than protecting your eyes they can compliment your fashion statement. World famous fashion houses produce sunglasses under their own brands. Retailers and small businesses are increasingly realizing the growing demand of wholesale sunglasses and including them in their product list.

There are different types of sunglasses ranging from sports sunglasses and replica sunglasses to designer sunglasses. If you are planning to buy any of these sunglasses then you need to select the most suitable one within your budget.

Let us have a look at some prime reasons for using sunglasses.

Protection from harmful UV rays

Prolonged exposure to sunlight increases the risk of exposure to harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays that can damage vision in long run. High quality sunglasses block harmful UV radiation and protect the eyes.

Delicate skin around the eyes gets protection from UV rays by using sunglasses. UV rays are found to cause wrinkles and premature aging of skin in these areas.

Protection from glare

Light gets reflected from different surfaces. Glare of such reflecting light can be distracting and potentially dangerous while driving, skiing or boating.

Sunglasses reduces glare of reflection and give a comfortable vision. Polarized sunglasses are found to be most useful for such purpose.

Protection from dust wind and strong light

By wearing sunglasses you can shield your eyes from strong wind and dust. It also reduces rate of evaporation of tears, keeping your eyes moist and comfortable.

Constant exposure to bright light can cause muscle fatigue, resulting in eyestrain and headache. Using sunglasses reduces the amount of light reaching the eyes and decreases risks of headache and eyestrain.

Searching for wholesale sunglasses can be best done via internet. There are various distributors and retailers offering wholesale sunglasses at a discount. While searching online you will find a wide range of styles and designs within your budget range.

Before you narrow down your choice, here are some simple tips that may help you in buying wholesale sunglasses.

UV protection

Make sure that the wholesale sunglasses you are selecting offers protection from UV rays. If you need to work or play under sunlight for prolonged period then it is absolutely necessary to wear sunglasses with at least 98% UV protection.

Look for sunglasses offering protection from UV-A rays (shorter wavelength) as well as UV-B rays (longer wavelength). If you are keen on UV protection, then look for sunglasses with wrap around styles. Such sunglasses fit comfortably around your eyes to filter out UV radiation.

Polarized lenses

Light is reflected from different surfaces causing glares. Polarized lenses reduce such glare by permitting only vertical light rays. If you are planning to war sunglasses while driving a car or motorcycle or skiing then you should go for polarized lenses.

Sunglasses with polarized lenses have thin plastic polarizing film embedded in middle of the lens material. It is hardly visible. Hold the sunglasses few inches away from your face for viewing a flat surface that is reflecting light through one of the lenses. Reflection from the object should be reduced considerably. Now rotate the sunglasses 90 degree from this position to find that reflection is more visible. This shows that your sunglasses have polarized lenses.

Color

You need to be very careful while selecting color of the lenses. Take them out in the sunlight and go for trials. Consider the type of activity and places where you will be wearing them. Grey seems to be the most favorite color of lenses. It is neutral color that does not effect contrast or distort any color.Brown and green lenses reduce glare, increase clarity and contrast. All shades of red effects contrast and distort other colors.

Pink, blue, rose and orange colored lenses are primarily used as fashion sunglasses. These colors can cause severe distortion of colors and unsuitable for driving and other serious purposes.

Color density

Selection of color density depends largely on personal preference, activities and ambient light level where it will be used. Select the color density that will be suitable under sunny as well as overcast condition.

Selection of right color density becomes crucial in some special cases. If you are going for skiing or hiking then consider lenses with a double gradient mirror coating for extra protection from sunlight.

Frames Consider the weight, style and durability of the frame of your selected sunglasses. No frame is suitable for all types of faces. Shape of your face, age and trends in fashion play crucial role in selecting a suitable frame of sunglasses.

Usually light weight frames are suitable if you plan to wear it for long period. Almost all frame shapes work with oval shaped faces. If you have a round face then rectangular frames are most suitable. Round frames and square frames are good for a square shaped face.

If you have fair complexion then look for frames with a touch of rose or amber shade. Clear, silver and golden frames are good choices if you have a dark complexion.

About seller

It is important to verify reputation of the seller before selecting or buying wholesale sunglasses from an online store. Look for the credential, customer reviews or check with local business offices. Relying on references may work but a little bit of verification always pays.

For online purchases, you need to rely on the seller for delivering quality product. The sunglasses appearing smart on online shop counter may have poor lens quality that you only know when you wear them. Verify details of shipping charges and schedule of delivery.

Fashion trend

Wearing sunglasses also helps you in making a fashion statement. You need to replenish your collection with latest and trendy sunglasses. Metal aviator sunglasses are presently at rage among fashionable men. Women simply love sunglasses with wider and bigger frames.

While some men are toying with retro style frames and dark lenses, ladies are going crazy about sunglasses with extra large round shaped frames and tangy shades.

Finally

Wholesale sunglasses available at several online stores offer excellent opportunity to replenish your stock of sunglasses at an affordable price range. Look for sunglasses offering protection from UV rays, glares of reflection, wind and dust particles. Make sure to choose the right frame, color of lenses while selecting your sunglasses. Make sure about the credential of the seller and quality of products while buying sunglasses online.

We love Zenni Optical! I wrote for them before and I've mentioned that we are also their customers. You just have to know your prescription for your eyes and you can go ahead and order cheap eyeglasses. Zenni Optical is one of the companies where you realize that you don't have to spend much to get a quality product. Even their shipping is cheap at $4.95 and that's for your entire order, not for each eyeglasses.

If you are feeling retro with colors, you can choose eyeglasses with the color of your choice; even their lenses have various shapes. Of course not all the eyeglasses are priced the same but most of them are cheap, as low as $6.95. You can also get free shipping if you order $50 or more. This is usually my technique when I am buying online is to get free shipping, sometimes I have to wait till I have a wish list of up to the required amount so I can get the shipping for free. I think that's a good deal since you don't have to go to a store, you'll just have your order delivered. With the savings that you will be getting, you can buy more than one eyeglasses so you can express more of your personal style. This holiday season, it really helps when you can save on things that you need.

If you are unsure what to order or if you have questions, they have a live chat that you can click on their website. They are also in Facebook.

Here are some of our San Diego pictures. We're actually in Long Beach now and yesterday we were in LA. I'm happy to be here in California and visit my family. Today has been very rainy and cold so plans has changed and this day has not been so busy as I hoped for. I'm hoping to take RC in Disneyland in a few days. We went to Legoland two days ago which we enjoyed. Budget is really tight but I hope to enjoy the rest of our stay here.

My current giveaway is ending soon. I will draw the winner when we come back. Thanks for those who keep visiting my blog and for the new comments and follows. I'll catch up soon. Have a great week ahead.

Have you thought about next semesters textbook purchases? If you have, then you probably have a sick feeling in your stomach just adding up the cost of all those books. Luckily, it does not have to be this way. You can save money and save lives at the same time. A textbook rental company called CampusBookRentals.com has partnered with Operation Smile and are donating over 1,000 life saving cleft lip surgeries this year to children in need. This great organization needs your help. However, the work on your part is minimal. All you need to do is rent your textbooks.

The process is easy. You simply order the books you need, have them mailed to your door for free, use them as you like and then return them at semesters end. This will not only save you money, but will allow you to avoid the hassle of crowded bookstores. Additionally, you will always find the book you need at Campus Book Rentals as they have the largest selection in the country. As mentioned shipping is always free, including on all returns. You will also enjoy the 30 day trial period offered by this rental company, and limitless rental dates. Finally, you will not find lower prices at any bookstore, in fact some books are up 90% off. While not every book can be 90% off, most are far less than the retail price of a bookstore.

The process is easy and will save you money, all while helping less fortunate children.

2.Shopping for a manufacturedhome can be easier because you can see various kinds already made in one area.

3.Since it is already made, it is easier to install at the location of your choice. This is an advantage as to those who are having their homes constructed.

4.They are usually made in a factory so there were quality control standards followed during construction.

5.Although some believe that manufactured homes are less safer than regular houses, some suggest that they are as safe now because they are built according to the area.

6.Nowadays, it is hard to tell the difference between a modular home and a regular home.

Disclaimer:I have never lived in a manufactured home and this blog post is based on my own research. I participated in a campaign and I will receive a small compensation writing about manufactured homes. For more information about manufactured homes in Rockford or manufactured homes in Chicago you can visit zemanhomes.com.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Some pictures of us two months ago. We weren't going to the park as we used to but it's been getting dark early now and it even rains sometimes. I'm also not able to take pictures everywhere now since my small camera is broken.

I love white hibiscus. I think they're very pretty.

A bug trying to hide inside the flower.

This is how we take pictures through self-timer. It's much better when there's a photographer =).

Thanksgiving is almost here. I thought I would be making some kind of crafts with RC for home decors but I've been lazy. What are your plans for Thanksgiving?

We just added some lighting into our apartment because we get to use it more now within the day. I like that we have big windows so we get a lot of natural light but sometimes on rainy days, it can get dark even if it still in morning or afternoon.

Do you have chandeliers in your home? We do have one although it is outdated. I think chandeliers can add character to the home especially those fancy ones. I want to buy a cute pink one for RC. Modern lighting now can come in many forms and shapes. Chandeliers use a lot of bulbs but most people use the energy efficient bulbs. They are more costly but you can save in electricity and they probably last longer. Replacing lights is an easy fix for those who want to update their homes. If you live in an apartment like me, replacing the chandelier or lighting is also one of the quick finishing touches that we can do since we cannot do much renovations if we are only renting.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

I wrote about Search Engine Optimization or SEO before although I am still not applying it on my blog. I don’t really think of how a search engine can land on my blog page whenever I make a personal blog post.However, I did write some sponsored posts that have links that are already optimized for search engines. It is surprising sometimes how much clicks you can get from those SEO-friendly blog posts.

This is how I understand it works. SEO is a tool that uses technology and keywords to get your page listed near the top of internet search engine results when someone puts a search query on Google, Bing, Yahoo, or any of the other major search engines.If you go to one those search engines and type in something related to your webpage, you can check to see how high up on the results page your site is listed.Some people use SEO consulting services to help their business become more successful.SEO consulting services can range from name changes to keywords.

This is how my top looked like before. I hardly used this top so I'm glad to be able to recycle it.

I used the same technique as the other projects that I made. I just had to cut and sew it at the sides, make a hem and place straps. Since these tops are pre-made and have different prints, my projects looks different from each other.

RC already used it to go to the mall two days ago. I think she likes her recycled dress.

It’s the football season! What teams are you rooting for? Honestly, I am secretly hoping for the football season to be over because my husband can get so hooked into watching it that we cannot go out or we will have to wait until the game is over before we go somewhere.

I was raised in the Philippines so I’m not accustomed to football. I enjoy watching basketball better. However, I know it is the most popular sport here in the US. I can understand all the excitement that goes along with the sport.

KingSizeDirect.Com is offering NFL apparel. Whether your team is the Packers, Bears of Jets, you can buy from their website. They don’t only offer shirts but also jackets, jerseys and more. They specialize in selling clothing for tall men. Their clearance items are going for 70% off the original price. That is my kind of sale.I think their items would also be great gifts for Christmas. It can also be a “uniform” when you are watching football on a game day at home with friends or family.

They also offer other items aside from clothing like luggage, wallets, watches and more.

Monday, November 14, 2011

We all think that our own children are the most beautiful and talented children in the world. We think that no other child even remotely competes, andwhen friends, family members, and even strangers say, “what a pretty child you have!” we are quick to gush. In fact, many parents who frequently hear that their child is beautiful often consider giving their child the opportunity to model.

However, modeling isn't for every child – even if they are pretty. Acting and modeling agencies have stringent requirements that a child must meet in order to be signed. So if you are interested in trying to get your son or daughter in to the world of child modeling, there are a few things you should ask yourself first:

How Outgoing is Your Child?

A successful child model isn't one with just a pretty face; personality is also incredibly important. If your child is attractive, but runs or hides behind you when a stranger approaches,constantly having to be around new people and taking direction from strangersmay be too stressful. However, if your child is very out-going and doesn't mind constant attention, their personality may be more suited to modeling.

What is Your Child's Body Type?

It might be a little difficult to be subjective about this, but you will need to actually assess your child's body type before trying to get them into modeling. Unfortunately, many children are flat out rejected by agencies because of something they can't control – their genetics.

Children that are slightly taller and thinner than their peers are often more successful than those that are of a more average height and weight for their age. So if your child has an average or heavier body type, they may find getting in to modeling isn't as easy as anticipated.

How is Your Business Sense?

While there are several reputable modeling agencies, there are also several agents and agencies that aren't. These are the types of agencies that won't pay your child appropriately or may charge outrageous fees. As a parent, it is your responsibility to protect your child. In order to be able to do so in the modeling industry, you are going to have to test your business skills.

Make sure that you check an agencies reputation before joining and also besure to thoroughly read every contract you are asked to sign. If you find thatyour business sense isn't very good, it might be a wise idea to hire a lawyerto make sure that your child will be protected accordingly.

Parents should also consider the long-term effects that modeling can have ona child. Modeling agencies desire great looking children, and it could greatly hurt your child's self-esteem or self-worth when a contract isn't renewed or when they are asked to lose weight by their agent. Parents need to keep in mind that adolescence is also a formidable time of growth and development, and the strains of modeling may not be appropriate for all kids. However, if you have an out-going, confident, and beautiful child, then modeling may be just the job for them.

Sunday, November 13, 2011

I bought a pair of toner shoes in the past two years because they suddenly became very popular with people who wanted to tone their legs. They promoted a healthy lifestyle which encouraged outdoor activity. But everything has not been so healthy for some users of a certain brand of toner shoe. The Reebok company has agreed to a settlement for their toning shoes, including Easy Tone, RunTone, JumpTone, SlimTone, EasyTone Flip, TrainTone, and SimplyTone.

Here is the press release:

If you purchased these Reebok toning shoes and/or apparel from December 5, 2008 through October 12, 2011, you may be eligible to receive Reebok settlement or Reebok refunds. The lawsuit alleges that Reebok violated certain state laws regarding the marketing and sale of toning shoes and apparel. Reebok denies all wrongdoing. The Court did not decide which side was right. Instead, the parties have decided to settle. The eligible apparel are EasyTone Capri, EasyTone Shorts, EasyTone Sleeveless Shirt, EasyTone Pants, EasyTone Long Bra Top and EasyTone Short Sleeve Top. If you have bought Reebok toning shoes or apparel during the covered time periods, you can get more information by calling their toll free number at 1-888-398-5389.

I love the brand Reebok and somehow I feel sorry for the company that this issue was raised. Since the court did not decide, I would not be here to judge either.

Halloween is over but we don’t need to wait for Halloween to dress up. Some parents have themes for their kid’s birthday and they do wear costumes too. If you are looking for regular or plus size costumes, you can visit WomanWithin.com. I have subscribed to their website and I continuously get a magazine from them.There have been many times that I almost bought from their website but I just have to be really careful with what I spend on now that I am a stay at home mom.

I know I will probably order from them sometime soon,maybe if they offer another free shipping promotion. Some websites charge a higher rate for shipping to Hawaii or Alaska because we are not part of the 48 continental states.

Woman Within is currently offering 50% off. Aside from that, there is also an ongoingpromo code that you can use that is located at their main page. They don’t run out of great deals. They are also running a sweepstakes on their website. You can get the chance to win a $250 shopping spree.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

I really enjoy doing projects for RC recently. I wish there is more time to do this. Please ignore how messy my apartment is.

This is how the top looked like before. I removed the sleeves, I sewn it at the sides, cut the excess fabric at the sides and then add straps.

I know that the lines looked crooked but it's the best that I can do in editing. I think RC's recycled dress turned out pretty nice. RC can also use it as a top later on instead of dress. I have so much clothes to recycle. I'm trying to minimize. I put away clothes that I no longer use in boxes and I sold some toys and items we don't use much.

Have you visited the website OneStopPlus.com? I’m obviously not plus size but if you are looking for plus size clubwear or other plus size clothing, this is a great website to browse. They have adorable dresses. Right now, they are having a promotion, their customers get 40% off the highest priced item including free returns for those that ordered $80 or more. You will just have to enter the code that is listed on their main page when you checkout. This way, you don’t have to worry much about the fitting because you can return it for free. It is really tempting for me to shop but I’m trying my best not to shop lately.

If you are the frugal type, you can check out their clearance items. You can get knit pants for as low as $8.54. They also have a skinny belt for only $5.88. I would say that’s a good buy. They have bags, accessories, junior style clothing, men’s clothing, shoes, home accessories and items for the kitchen. We can start decorating our home for this upcoming holiday season.

Friday, November 11, 2011

We eat Mcdonald's a lot but RC never got the chance to go inside. We just always go to the drive thru. It was RC’s first time in McDonald’s. There are McDonald's very close to where we live so it's really tempting to go there and just buy food.

Even at McDonald's, I still need to get my sweets.

Pose like nobody is around. I was looking down but I look like my eyes are closed. =)

It was also RC's first time doing this “tube crawl” kind of play area. We were worried about her because she was quiet and all the kids are going in and out and screaming but we don’t see or hear her from outside these tubes. But she was just enjoying herself inside.For mommies, you probably experience being nervous when your kid is playing with bigger and more aggresive kids.

I even had to go at the play area and get up at the side (as you see this side with the net) so I can get her but as soon as I got her she ran back and go inside the tubes again. It was hard work getting her, not to mention embarassing. It took her awhile before she got out again. I thought we will stay here for many hours.

How was your Veteran's Day? I'm glad my husband did not have to go to work today.

LinkWithin

About this blog

This is my style of raising my child while she shows her own style as she grows (so fast). This blog is mostly about our moments together and the places we have been. This blog will constantly change depending on the type of activities we do. My daughter is now 3 years old and I plan to make her preschool years fun and educational. I learn a lot of things from the experiences I am having as a mother.